Join us for a peaceful morning of mindful nature connection as we watch and enjoy the beautiful birds of Southern Appalachia. The class will start with a brief introduction to mindfulness as you learn to tune in to your senses and cultivate internal and external awareness.
We will then explore several activities to focus our curious attention on the abundant and varied life all around us—especially the birdlife! These activities may include practicing a “birding sit-spot,” deep listening to birdsong, mindful movement, and offering gratitude and kindness to birds and other living beings.
While we will use binoculars to find and identify birds, identification will not be the focus of this class. Unlike a traditional “bird walk,” the goal is not to see and identify as many birds as possible but rather to connect with and deeply appreciate each individual bird we encounter in a mindful way.
By moving slowly and cultivating our sense of awareness and wonder, we’ll find ourselves nourished, restored, and amazed by the living world. No experience in mindfulness or birding is necessary. Beginners are most welcome!
Guide Topher Stephens
Activity Rating Moderate: This Branch Out hike will be a medium-impact experience requiring some extended periods of physical exertion.
Distance 3.6 miles (5.8 km)
Elevation Gain 879 feet (268 m)
AllTrails Map (view map)
Meeting Location Kuwohi Information Kiosk (view map)
Event Location Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald and back to Kuwohi
Settings and Terrain
- Uneven trails
- Potential hazards, including exposed roots, downed trees, and rocks
- Potential wildlife presence, including large fauna, insects, and snakes
Personal Considerations
This Branch Out event is designed for hikers who:
- are comfortable with extended periods of exertion
- can independently navigate physically challenging and unplanned situations
- are comfortable climbing over or under trees and crossing waterways
- possess the skills and gear required to be safe on the trail, even during inclement weather
What to Bring
For this activity:
- Applicable field guides of interest
- Binoculars
- Foam sitting pad or small camp chair
Required gear for all activities:
- Comfortable and sturdy shoes/boots
- Rain gear and dress in layers for potentially changing weather
- Sun protection (sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Trekking poles or hiking staff to aid stability
- Food and plenty of water
About Your Guide
Topher Stephens has been guiding and facilitating outdoor and experiential education programs for over 15 years. He has led adventure education programs in Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, Central and South America, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, the American West, and throughout Appalachia.
He is a Wilderness First Responder and earned a B.S. in Biology from UNC Asheville. Topher has also earned Advanced Birding Skills recognition from BirdMentor, the Ecopsychology Certificate from Pacifica Graduate Institute, and the Awake in the Wild Mindfulness Instructor Certificate from Awake in the Wild.
Required Reading
Event Disclaimer
This information has been designed to be as accurate as possible; however, all programs are subject to change for multiple reasons, including weather.
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Member Fee $45
Guest Fee $85
As a member, you are encouraged to bring along a guest. This fee includes admission to this event and a Park Keeper membership for your guest.